The Icy Threat: Unmasking and Combating Ice Dams on Your Roof
As a seasoned home inspector, my winter inspections take on a unique meaning. While the world admires the picturesque snow-laden roofs, my gaze is trained on the often-overlooked eaves, where a silent threat lurks: ice dams. These seemingly harmless ridges of ice, resembling frozen teeth clamped onto the roof’s edge, are much more than a […]
Guardrail height requirements, considering both model codes and potential variations
Model Codes: International Building Code (IBC): Mandates a minimum guardrail height of 42 inches for any walking surface with a vertical drop of 30 inches or more, including those inside homes. International Residential Code (IRC): Specifies a minimum guardrail height of 36 inches for interior applications. Local Jurisdictions: Variations: Local building codes may adopt the […]
Danger in the Steps: Why Old Staircases Can Be Risky
Old staircases can be dangerous for a number of reasons. They may be in poor condition, with loose or broken steps, uneven risers, or missing handrails and guardrails. They may also be poorly lit, making it difficult to see where you are going. In addition, old staircases may be narrower and steeper than modern staircases, […]